As North Tahoe snow blocks vents, carbon monoxide poisonings rise

North Tahoe fire officials are warning residents of increased gas leaks and carbon monoxide poisonings in the area due to heavy snow blocking vents and natural gas meters.

Since the start of the year, “hazard calls” — related to gas leaks, carbon monoxide and similar emergencies — have accounted for almost “20% of all non-EMS incidents,” according to the North Tahoe and Meeks Bay Fire Protection districts.

“North Tahoe Firefighters are responding to a significant increase in CO emergencies throughout the region, many of which result in positive CO readings upon arrival, with occupants/patients showing symptoms of varied severity,” according to a statement by the districts.

Many of these incidents, fire officials said, are the result of heavy snow buildup on combustion-appliance venting, buried foundation vents and improper or snow-obstructed home generator ventilation systems.

There has also been a rise in gas leaks due to buried tanks, aboveground propane plumbing and buried natural gas meters being impacted by recent “repetitive freeze-thaw cycles,” officials added.

Gas leaks were also reportedly linked to roof snow shedding and snow removal efforts at homes, according to the fire districts.

Fire officials recommend that residents who wish to clear snow from their properties should not pile snow around tanks, meters, regulators or piping; not use sharp tools or force when removing snow from pipes, regulators tanks and cylinders; and not allow tanks to run dry.

Tanks, authorities added, should be filled when they reach 30% to 40% and have a clear, accessible path for gas suppliers.